Artery Remodeling
Artery Remodeling, renovating homes and offices in Maryland, DC and Northern Virginia
Artery Remodeling
The 2010 Winter Olympics Is Not The Only Competition This Season!
Maybe its not exactaly the Vancouver Olympics but it is a race where the most quilified wins.
The winter winds have got your mind thinking of those home improvement projects? Now that you have spent hours tearing out pages of homes magazines and pouring over plans, and finally you've chosen the look you want. You're ready to build your universal designed dream addition or that eco-friendly kitchen remodel. Just one question remains: Who is qualified to put it all together? To help with that selection, we've put together a few questions for you to ask potential contractors and builders. There are several items could be important. I believe these are amongst the most important.
Is the contractor insured?
It is often assumed that all remodeling contractors should have insurance but that’s not the case. The amount of coverage and limitations may vary but regardless they should at least have proof of liability insurance. The most common is General Contractors Liability insurance. It is also important to note you should talk to your insurance company for proper coverage.
Does the Contractor Have References?
Nothing speaks louder than a contractors past customer. When a contractor comes to you to work on your home or property, ask him for references. Usually they will have a list of people they have worked for that you can contact and ask questions. Be specific; tell your contractor you want references from people he has actually done work for. His mother or sister- in law do not count.
Does the Contractor Have a License and Certificates?
Because of the changes in construction practices. It is important to know that the contractor has taken the time to become a professional with in his trade. Ensuring the proper licensing and certificates are in place will help identify his level of commitment to his trade and your project.
What Type of Materials Will You Be Using?
When going through the long and sometimes tedious ordeal of picking materials to be used in your renovation. Once you know what you want in the way of material make sure that it gets written into the contract. Such items can be types of flooring, counter-tops, specific interior trims and doors. Down to the edging on the counter tops they will be using. Keep in mind if you desire to use eco friendly or products of universal design you contractor should know soon. There can be a wide range regarding quality and cost, of similar materials.
Can I See Some Examples of Your Work?
Most established contractors will have a picture books of work to show you, or even better they can take you to a project where they have done similar work to what you want. This will allow you to inspect the quality of the contractors finished work and hopefully you can get some feedback on how well that particular job was run.
Do I Need to Get a Building Permit?
Depending on the scope of your job, you will almost always need a work permit. Electrical and plumbing are a given, but things like roofing, siding, and painting often require work permits depending on local codes. If your contractor is resistant to or unable to pull a work permit this should send a red flag to you. It will usually be that they are not insured or licensed to work in your area.
What Type of Payment Schedule Do You Expect?
Most work other than very small jobs will require a series of draws. Draws are set amounts predetermined and written in the contract and are to be paid after a set amount of work has been accomplished. You should also ask wht type of deposit is required at contract signing and what that deposit covers.
Will I Need to Hire Other Contractors for Specialty Work?
Some General contractors/Remodelers do all of the work for the project, meaning they have registered electricians and plumbers that do their work as employees. Most though, will sub-contract such things to specialty contractors. The contractor Should have electricians, plumbers, etc, that he has used in the past..If there is a specific company you would like to use. You should let you contractor know so he can prequalify as a quality sub contractor. If you trust your contractor to pick these subcontractors it can save you time because they have worked together in the past and are more accommodating to each others work.
Can You Put This All in Writing?
Before you sign anything make sure you have it in writing. If something has not been put in the contract do not trust that it will get done or added later. Be specific and make sure your contractor knows you want specifics in the contract. Many arguments and loss of time and money could be avoided with a very specific contract. It give both you and the contractor a reference to fall back on if the job is large and takes a long time to complete.
Asking these questions will help you find the contractor that takes your project to the finish line. Its fun to watch the two guys in a truck drop there tool belt and run!!
Are there any other questions or comments on searching for a qualified remodeler?
Jim W.
240 315 5785
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